Local race will benefit domestic violence victims

The Run Domestic Violence Out of Brevard 5K Run/Walk gives out impressive medals. The second annual race will be held April 21.

SENIOR LIFE photo

Local walkers and runners are invited to help raise funds and awareness for victims of abuse at the second annual Run Domestic Violence Out of Brevard 5K Run/Walk.

The event will take place at 5 p.m. Saturday, April 21 at McKnight Family Sports Complex in Rockledge. All proceeds benefit The Salvation Army Domestic Violence Program.

Cindy Mitchell is the director of the program and she says the race has a goal to raise $20,000.

“This past year, we sheltered over 250 survivors and their children, and served hundreds more through our 24-hour hotline and through non-residential counseling and advocacy services,” Mitchell said. “Nationally, one in four women will experience intimate partner violence at some point during their lifetimes. Brevard is no different.”

There were 4,311 cases of reported domestic violence in Brevard County in 2016, the latest time frame when combined statistics are available. In 2017, there were 35 reported homicides in Brevard County and eight of those involved domestic violence, according to county law enforcement records.

The race is meant to shine a spotlight on domestic violence issues that plague Brevard and also raise awareness about the resources available through the Salvation Army’s program. Mitchell says she hopes to see people at all fitness levels out enjoying the race.

“People should not hesitate about participating because they aren’t a “runner.” There were many people who participated in our first race who did not identify as a runner, but who ran/walked with their work colleagues, friends and family to support the cause. There’s truly no pressure,” Mitchell said.

Those interested in running should register at runningzone.com by April 6 for a guaranteed race shirt and pricing discounts. There also are sponsorship opportunities available by calling 321-631-2766, ext. 22.